GHS students glad to volunteer for limnology class

October 23, 2009|By Chris Engle, HT Staff Writer

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GAYLORD —For one small group of high school kids, summer school was an experience they’ll remember for a lifetime.

Thirteen Gaylord High School students participated in chemistry teacher Jeff Kalember’s summer limnology class in August, voluntarily signing up for a week-long course, which some described as “a fun way to earn science credit” or a way to “experience” what they’d learn in a book. (See what some of Kalember’s students had to say about limno in related story).

The class, focused on the study of inland waters like lakes and streams, had students testing the quality of several local water bodies, collecting and identifying aquatic insects, creating trout habitat on the AuSable River and learning the operations of a fish hatchery and the wild history of Northern Michigan.

Along the way they camped overnight, piloted canoes down the Sturgeon River and donned waders to scoop bugs and position logs along the banks of the AuSable and Black rivers.

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To say it was a hands-on experience does not do it justice — a number of kids “immersed” themselves so deeply they came out soaking-wet head to toe after flipping their canoe or taking a misstep in waders.

“I feel very strongly that many students learn more out of their seats rather than in their seats,” said Kalember. “They need to see, feel, touch, smell and experience science while immersed in it. They need trees and woods and lakes and rivers daily — this class took us there.”

Kalember said he expects stronger interest in the class next year, which he’s planning for June. Students need to apply to Kalember to participate in the class which he believes helps open up numerous job opportunities in fisheries, wildlife and forestry, among others.

“I got the satisfaction of seeing them laugh, smile, work cooperatively and enjoy education,” Kalember said. “We don’t see this often enough.”

Student views

“The class wouldn’t be as much fun if it wasn’t for (Jeff) Kalember. The canoe trip was my favorite part — 30 miles and six hours of the Sturgeon River. We tipped a lot! I worked at the Jordan River fish hatchery last summer and I want to continue.” — Logan Wickert, junior

“It was cool how we’d spend 1 1/2 to 2 hours in class then get on a bus and apply it to a real-life situation and experience it. The large woody debris project on the

AuSable, cutting trees and creating habitat for fish and wildlife, was a lot of fun.” — Evan Carr, senior

“It was fun just being outside. We went two-tracking on the bus on the way to the

AuSable. It was an opportunity for science credit in a week’s time.” — Ernie Woodhouse, junior

“It was a different experience. It didn’t feel like school. We were in a completely new learning atmosphere. You’re not just looking at a book. It’s first-hand experience, like the large woody debris project where we guided trees into place.” — Ryan Zimmerman, junior

“It was a great experience. The hands-on experience like moving rocks around, capturing and identifying bugs was nice, and the large woody debris project was the most fun. I want to be a wildlife biologist.” — Kynzie House, senior

“I liked all the people I met. We got along really well — we all got into it and wanted to learn. It opened my eyes as to what’s out there and what I have yet to learn about the outdoors. We visited Hartwick Pines. It was awesome, and you’re talking about just trees. I’m glad I did it. It will be one of the things I look back on when I think about high school.” — Katelyn Freimark, senior

“I like to fish a little bit but, during our visit to the Oden fish hatchery, it was really interesting learning the details of raising three different kinds of trout. I had been thinking about DNR jobs but this really opened up a lot of different areas I could go into. We all had a great time regardless of who you are, where you’re from or what you like to do.” — Emily Matelski, junior

Limnology itinerary

• Monday: classroom, then bus ride to Hartwick Pines State Park in Grayling

• Tuesday: large woody debris projects on AuSable River with Huron Pines and learning about rain gardens

• Wednesday: Water quality testing on several lakes in the Gaylord area